35 Years Ago Today Eddie Bernice Johnson Is Appointed The Regional Director Of The Department Of Health Education And Welfare By President Carter

35 years ago on September 30th, 1977 Eddie Bernice Johnson took the oath as Regional Director of the Department of Health Education & Welfare, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold this position. Johnson was selected by President Carter because of her strong record of advocacy for workers, families and children while serving in the Texas House of Representatives.